The BVRLA believes that access to connected vehicle data will be vital for future fleet management and mobility services, and has welcomed the European Automobile Manufacturers Association’s (ACEA) recent report on the subject.

However, it remains “seriously concerned” about implications the ACEA’s scenario could present for fleets; specifically their ability to access independent repairers or data-based services themselves.

BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney commented: “We completely agree with ACEA’s assertion that access to vehicle data needs to be provided in a standardised format that is safe, secure and provides fair competition.

A previous survey by BVRLA found 63% of fleet managers, rental operators and leasing companies want to see better regulations regarding the protection of driver and vehicle data.

“We have significant concerns over how manufacturers plan to assert complete control over access to vehicle data using their cloud-based server or ‘extended vehicle platform’.

“This may be addressed by ACEA’s reference to the concept of an independently operated ‘neutral server’ that could gather data from vehicle manufacturers, providing multi-brand access.”

The BVRLA already works with its members to explore potential scenarios where connected vehicle data can be used, and how this data should be recorded and provided, and is also liaising with numerous fleet and motoring organisations in the UK.

“The ACEA paper refers to ‘vehicle users’ but makes almost no reference to vehicle owners. It is now imperative that motor manufacturers start addressing the specific data access requirements of a very significant group of vehicle owners and purchasers – leasing and rental companies.”